Hey there, my friend 👋. Brace yourself, because this mac and cheese recipe is about to rock your world.
I’ve taken the classic dish and elevated it to new heights with my secret ingredient – a pinch of love, sprinkled with a dash of Italian flair.
Buon appetito!
Why You Will Love This Mac And Cheese Recipe
Where do I begin?
This mac and cheese recipe is a true celebration of cheesy goodness, and let me tell you, it’s VERY easy to make.
From the smooth sauce that coats every nook and cranny of the pasta to the irresistible golden-brown crust that forms on top, this dish is a symphony of flavors that will have you doing a happy dance in your kitchen.
But what truly sets this recipe apart is the perfect balance of creamy richness and tangy zing. The secret?
A blend of three delectable cheeses that melt together in perfect harmony, creating a flavor profile that will leave you utterly smitten.
And let’s not forget the crunch factor!
We’ll be topping this mac and cheese with a heavenly blend of buttery breadcrumbs and aromatic herbs, adding a delightful contrast to the velvety smooth texture.
Trust me, my friends, this recipe is a true labor of love – a comforting masterpiece that will have you saying “mamma mia!” with every bite.
Ingredients Needed to make this Mac And Cheese
These are the ingredients you need to make this recipe:
- 500g elbow macaroni
- 120g sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 120g gruyere cheese, grated
- 120g parmesan cheese, grated
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Alternative Ingredients for
If you do not have the Ingredients I listed above, do not worry. You can swap them out for the alternatives below.
| Ingredient | Alternative |
| elbow macaroni | penne, fusilli, or any short pasta shape |
| sharp cheddar cheese | colby, monterey jack, or a blend of melting cheeses |
| gruyere cheese | swiss cheese or fontina |
| parmesan cheese | grana padano or pecorino romano |
| whole milk | 2% milk or a combination of milk and cream |
| breadcrumbs | panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers |
| fresh parsley | dried parsley or other fresh herbs like chives or basil |
Step-By-Step Instructions on How to Make this recipe
In this recipe, we’ll be creating a heavenly mac and cheese dish that will transport you straight to cheesy bliss.
First, we’ll cook the pasta until it’s perfectly al dente.
Then, we’ll whip up a creamy, velvety cheese sauce that will coat every nook and cranny of the pasta.
Finally, we’ll top it all off with a crispy breadcrumb topping that adds a satisfying crunch to every bite.
Expert Tips
- Use a blend of cheeses for maximum flavor impact. I’ve chosen a combination of sharp cheddar, gruyere, and parmesan, but feel free to experiment with your favorite varieties.
- Grate the cheese yourself for optimal melting and smooth texture.
- Cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when baked.
- Temper the milk by adding a small amount of the hot roux to it before incorporating it into the sauce. This will prevent curdling.
- Bake until golden brown and bubbling for that irresistible crusty top.
Utensils You Need To Make this Mac And Cheese
These are the utensils and/or equipments you need to make this recipe:
- Large pot for cooking pasta
- Colander for draining pasta
- Saucepan for making the cheese sauce
- Whisk for whisking the roux and milk
- Grater for grating the cheese
- Baking dish or casserole dish
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Frequently asked questions about Mac And Cheese and the Recipe
What type of cheese is best for mac and cheese?
A combination of different cheeses provides the best flavor and texture. I recommend using a blend of sharp cheddar for its tangy kick, gruyere for its nutty notes, and parmesan for its salty punch.
Can I use pre-grated cheese for this recipe?
While pre-grated cheese is convenient, it’s best to grate your own cheese. Pre-grated varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the melting and texture of the cheese sauce.
How do I prevent the cheese sauce from separating?
To prevent the cheese sauce from separating, it’s crucial to temper the milk before adding it to the roux. This means adding a small amount of the hot roux to the cold milk and whisking it together before pouring it into the saucepan.
Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! This mac and cheese can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
What type of pasta works best for mac and cheese?
Elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but you can use any short pasta shape like penne, fusilli, or cavatappi. Avoid long, thin pasta varieties as they may become mushy when baked.
Can I add additional ingredients to this mac and cheese?
Certainly! This recipe is a versatile canvas for your culinary creativity. Consider adding diced ham, cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted vegetables for extra flavor and texture.
How do I achieve a crispy breadcrumb topping?
For a crispy breadcrumb topping, make sure to use fresh breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs. Toss them with melted butter or olive oil before sprinkling them over the mac and cheese. This will ensure they become deliciously golden and crunchy.
Can I make this mac and cheese without milk?
While milk is a key component in creating a creamy cheese sauce, you can substitute it with unsweetened plant-based milk alternatives like almond or oat milk. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
